A highly skilled tactical unit of the Spanish police, the Unidad Especial de Intervención (UEI), specializes in high-risk operations like counterterrorism, hostage rescue, and protecting public persons.
The Unidad Especial de Intervención (UEI) is a Spanish police Tactical Unit specializing in high-risk operations both within and outside the country. Established in 1978 as the Grupo de Intervención Inmediata, it was restructured as the Special Intervention Unit in 1982. The UEI is a Tier 1 special forces unit and part of the ATLAS Network of European special police units. Its primary missions include combating terrorism, hostage rescue, counterterrorism, drug trafficking, and protection of dignitaries. The UEI is organized into command, intervention groups, and technical support groups. Candidates undergo rigorous selection and training programs, including physical tests and specialized courses. The unit is equipped with modern weapons and vehicles, and its operations have led to the release of hostages and the arrest of criminals, including members of terrorist groups. The UEI has been involved in notable operations such as hostage rescues, prison riots, and protection of public figures. It is considered a highly trained and effective elite police unit in Spain.
